Gillibrand Introduces Legislation to Provide free Meals to Schoolchildren

New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has put forth legislation designed to provide free breakfast, lunch, and dinner to schoolchildren in need across the country.

The Universal Schools Meals Program Act would take various actions including providing permanent free breakfast, lunch and dinner to all schoolchildren regardless of their income. It’d also reduce the stigma associated with meal programs and expand the summer food service program and summer EBT program by making all children eligible to participate.

Statistics show free school meals are associated with improved attendance rates and school performance, fewer behavioral incidents, and better health amongst other outcomes.